(Minister Well Newsletter, December 2016)
In the weeks surrounding Christmas congregations swell and church calendars overflow with events and activities. The church smells of fresh-cut evergreens, the children’s department has an extra layer of red and green glitter, the adults are a bit more polished, and Christmas carols fill the air. But behind the scenes, the church staff is literally running to and fro between events and longing to just make it to the finish line of Christmas morning. Amidst all of your hustle and bustle service, I want to take just a few minutes to remind you, dear Ministry Leader, that you are called first and foremost (even at Christmas) to glorify our God and enJOY Him forever. So, in case you are feeling more frazzled than festive, here are a few quick ideas to help you experience and showcase Joy to The World this Christmas.
Mind
It is so natural to rush to mark off completed tasks, only to add more items to the bottom of the “to do” list. Which results in a constant pressure with no time to notice, let alone find joy in, an accomplishment or the present moment. However, with intentionality and practice we can focus on what tasks have been completed and the joy we anticipate in the activities or tasks that lie ahead. It is completely your choice to worry about the details of the Christmas Eve services running smoothly, or to visualize and fantasize about the church family celebration of Christ’s birth. CHOOSE JOYFUL THOUGHTS.
Body
Prolonged stress causes a buildup of the stress hormone cortisol in the brain. Exercise will relieve this buildup. But, don’t just go get on a treadmill, do something challenging and/or enjoyable (e.g., slack line, rock wall, paddleboard, dance, sex). Alternatively, relaxation is also a fantastic stress reliever. The busyness of December calls for a supercharged relaxation though, not your everyday ordinary relaxing music or deep breathing. So, participate in a yoga/stretching class, soak in a hot tub, or go for a solo walk on the beach to recharge. EXERCISE AND RELAX.
Spirit
We are created to enjoy God. It is as essential to our existence as breath. I love John Piper’s emphasis that we are to glorify God by enjoying Him forever. In a DesiringGod.org interview of Michael Reeves titled “How do I pursue joy in Christ?” a very simple and profound answer is given to the title question. We pursue joy in Christ by knowing Him more fully. We will be joyful by delighting in Him, just as the Father delights in His Son. Not by marveling in how He uses us as his hands and feet, nor in resting in our salvation through Him, or even pondering our secured place in heaven, rather by enjoying Christ himself. Study Him. Be fascinated by Him. Be curious about Him. As a parent marvels at their child, needing nothing in return from that child, I pray you find renewed joy in the wonder, the power, and the otherness of this babe born on Christmas. DELIGHT IN CHRIST.
Challenge
Choose joyful thoughts.
Exercise and relax.
Delight in Christ.
May you Minister Well in mind, body, and spirit.
In Him,
Heather Clark, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist, PY 7620